Curves Diet
The Curves Diet is designed specifically for women and is comprised of a food, exercise, and motivational plan. The concept behind the Curves Diet is to reprogram metabolism so that the body can perform at its optimal level, both while active and at rest.
There are two plans on this diet: The low-calorie plan and the low-carbohydrate plan. Both plans have three phases:
Phase 1, Jump Start, is meant to jump-start weight loss in the first week. It requires portion control and provides healthy meal and snack choices.
Phase 2, Take It Off, calls for an increased caloric intake of the right types of food. Along with the exercise program, this phase ensures fat loss rather than lean muscle loss. Phase 3, Keep It Off, commences when you’ve reached your goal weight. This phase emphasizes a healthy, independent lifestyle and smart personal choices based on knowledge gleaned in phases 1 and 2.
This exercise plan consists of 30 minutes of circuit strength training three days per week. This can be accomplished at a Curves facility or in the privacy of your home (some additional equipment is required). All Curves facilities solely employ women.
Foods to include:
- Vegetables
- Fruits
- Whole grains
- Meat
- Poultry
- Fish
- Eggs
- Dairy
- Nuts and seeds
- Healthy oils
Foods to avoid:
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
- Sugar
- Processed foods
- Trans fats
- Refined grains
Pros:
- Includes an affordable exercise plan
- Provides access to recipes and meal plans
- Teaches portion control
- Includes a website that enables dieters to track their progress and receive support
Cons:
- Counting calories and recording food daily may be tedious and overwhelming
- Cooking the majority of food can be time consuming
- Only allows women to join
- Some may not live near a Curves facility
Sources:
Curves www.curves.com (Links to an external site.)
Strength-Training Surprise www.curves.com (Links to an external site.)
The Workout – Supporting Research www.curves.com (Links to an external site.)